Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal, has long been a hub of vibrant musical talent, but few names have risen as quickly and decisively as Wandile “DJ LOOPAC” Shabalala (24). Known to fans as LooPac, this young DJ and producer is carving out a unique lane in South Africa’s hip-hop and house crossover scene, blending nostalgia with innovation in ways that resonate across generations.
A Sound That Bridges Eras.
DJ LOOPAC’s artistry thrives on his ability to sample classic house jams and reimagine them into modern hip-hop anthems. This duality—honoring the past while pushing forward—has become his signature. Tracks like “SHLIME” (featuring Sastii and C-Side Boyz) and the viral hit “SOFTLIFE” (featuring MusiholiQ, Mfana Kah Gogo, and Jepedoh) showcase his knack for creating music that feels both familiar and refreshingly new.
His beats are heavy-hitting yet soulful, often layered with collaborative features from underground and rising vocalists. This approach has made him a versatile force, appealing to hip-hop heads, house loyalists, and casual listeners alike.
Discography Highlights.
– PACMAN VOL I (2025): A 12-track debut album that cemented his reputation. Standout singles include “Let Me Know” (featuring Dj Smxsh & Dxniel Fxrbes) and “Funeral Khava” (featuring Yungboyvegeta). – 2PL8 (2026): His sophomore project, expanding his sonic palette and proving his consistency. – Recent Singles (2026): “BIG LOKHUZA” and “IZAPHA” have kept his momentum alive, showing his ability to drop standalone hits that dominate playlists. – Earlier Hits (2025): Tracks like “SUPER SUPER” (featuring MSI), “BOSS”, and “EMSEBENZINI” remain fan favorites, often cited as the songs that introduced him to a wider audience.
Collaborations & Industry Impact.
DJ LOOPAC has already worked with heavyweight artists such as Lacabra, Lord Script, and MSI, while also linking up with top producers like Audio Sims. These collaborations not only elevate his profile but also demonstrate his adaptability across different styles and creative visions.@His ability to merge underground grit with mainstream appeal has made him a sought-after collaborator, and his projects often serve as platforms for emerging voices in the South African music scene.
Cultural Resonance.
What sets DJ LOOPAC apart is his commitment to pushing creative boundaries. His music is more than entertainment—it’s a cultural statement. By sampling house classics, he pays homage to South Africa’s deep musical heritage, while his hip-hop reinventions speak to the aspirations of a younger generation navigating modern life.
Songs like “SOFTLIFE” embody the pursuit of luxury and ease, while tracks like “Funeral Khava” dive into darker, more introspective themes. This range reflects the complex realities of South African youth culture, making his work both.
Where to Stream.
Fans can access DJ LOOPAC’s full discography across major platforms:- Apple Music – Stream PACMAN VOL I and his latest singles. – Spotify – Browse his complete catalog, from early hits to recent drops.
At just 24, DJ LOOPAC is already proving himself as one of Newcastle’s most promising exports. With a growing catalog, high-profile collaborations, and a sound that bridges eras, he is not just riding the wave of South African hip-hop—he’s helping shape its future.
As he continues to experiment and expand, one thing is clear: DJ LOOPAC is not just making music; he’s building a legacy.
Siyanda Ngqayimbana A.K.A. Da blaq Bull: From the Streets of Makhaza to Global Hip Hop Recognition
Siyanda Ngqayimbana, also known as Da blaq Bull, is an emerging hip-hop sensation whose journey from the vibrant streets of Makhaza to the global music stage is capturing hearts and turning heads. Born and raised in the heart of 37sec Ghost Town, Siyanda’s narrative is a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and the pursuit of one’s dreams.
Siyanda’s love affair with rap began in 2014 while growing up in Site B, Khayelitsha. At the time, he was not yet recording his tracks, instead opting to express his lyrical prowess through freestyle videos captured on his phone. It wasn’t until he moved back to Makhaza in 2017 that Siyanda’s latent passion for music found fertile ground. In an environment where his friends weren’t particularly attuned to the hip-hop genre, Siyanda’s determination to create music was unyielding. He remained focused on his studies until the call of the craft could no longer be ignored.
A turning point came in Grade 10 when Siyanda’s ardor for writing and rapping was rekindled. A chance Facebook post seeking a studio in Makhaza led him to an encounter with fellow recording artist Nasy C Alta. This meeting marked the inception of Siyanda’s professional music journey. Under Nasy C Alta’s guidance, Siyanda recorded his first track, “Bombay,” produced by SO Deno which rapidly gained viral traction within his community. The track’s success not only established Siyanda as a force to be reckoned with but also ignited a fervor for musical expression that couldn’t be contained.
Siyanda’s trajectory skyrocketed when he collaborated with fellow Cape Town artists Mossi l Bay and Cynth Kid on “Ithongo Lemambs,” a collaboration that etched his name into the very fabric of Cape Town’s hip-hop scene. His international footprint expanded further with the release of “War Ready,” a collaboration with American artist Mizzy Hendrix . This transcontinental collaboration was a testament to Siyanda’s cross-cultural appeal, capturing the attention of listeners across digital platforms.
However, the journey was not without its obstacles. As the studio where he had been recording closed its doors, Siyanda’s musical momentum came to a temporary halt. But in 2023, a stroke of luck revitalized his journey. With the support of a neighbor who happened to be a recording artist armed with a laptop, Siyanda produced his latest track, “Testimony.” A song initially written in 2022, “Testimony” encapsulates Siyanda’s resilience and his unrelenting spirit to keep creating despite the odds.
Mark your calendars for September 20th as Siyanda Da Bull drops “Testimony” across all digital platforms. The release promises to be a testament not only to his growth as an artist but also to his dedication to his craft.
Siyanda Da Bull also has thrilling collaborations on the horizon. With a forthcoming track featuring the talented American artist Moonraq, alongside Mizzy Hedrix, Siyanda’s influence is poised to transcend borders. Furthermore, a collaboration with Rap God and kill Kris’s , another exceptional American artist, is also in the works, promising a musical experience that bridges continents.
Siyanda Da Bull Ngqayimbana’s journey is an ode to the resilience and passion of Africa’s rising hip-hop stars. His relentless drive and unwavering belief in his artistry continue to shape his path to greatness. As Siyanda continues to amplify his presence on the global music stage, he remains an inspiration to aspiring artists across the world.
